Wild’s Charlie Coyle Helps Propel Younger Teammates

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — One of the real spark plugs for the recent Wild surge is the performance of Charlie Coyle, who is the poster child for the development of the younger players on this team.

It’s not that it gets easier but coming to an NHL rink is certainly less intimidating for Coyle — that comes from a call-up from last season.

“That’s huge. It’s crazy how much that plays into it. You just feel, I don’t want to say comfortable but some stuff comes natural, you just know what to expect. Just that experience, it’s everything. It helps you out,” he said.

What he brings becomes more important now — down the stretch. Because he’s big and strong, and in the Western Conference, you need both.

“Players like that at this time of year, obviously teams check better at this time of year, they’re playing their system better. There’s less room on the ice so when you have a big body that can create something by winning battles, getting in front of the net,” said head coach Mike Yeo.

What will define his post-season will be what he does in front of the net.